Concert to benefit Veterans’ Memorial Foundation

By John Faucher

The New London Veterans’ Memorial Foundation continues fundraising efforts for the future Veterans’ Memorial in Taft Park.

The group recently signed a contract with the nationally renowned University of Wisconsin Varsity Band to perform at New London High School at 2 p.m. Sunday, March 6, 2016.

It will be the band’s first appearance back in New London since 2012, when local scholarship organization NEWLASS sponsored a fundraising concert at the high school.

“It was a successful event for them, and since then many people have been asking if the band was going to come back,” said Bob Dessort, public relations chair for the Veterans’ Memorial Foundation.

“I’ve never been able to see their performance, but I’ve been told it’s up close, lively and entertaining,” said Dessort. He is looking forward to seeing the show in March.

Proceeds from the show will go directly toward the Veterans’ Memorial project in New London. The group also plans to use part of the proceeds to award a scholarship to a NLHS school senior who is planning to join a branch of military service.

“We’re encouraging all Veterans to attend and wear their veteran’s or service hat,” he said. The group is in the process of extending a special invitation to all of the veterans organizations in the county.

Advance tickets for the concert will go on sale in January, for a cost of $10 for adults, or $8 for seniors and students under 18. Tickets at the door will be $12 for adults and $10 for seniors and students.

Ticket outlets will include the New London Area Chamber of Commerce, Festival Foods, NLHS and Administration office, First State Bank in Dale, Wolf River Community Bank in Hortonville and Heid Music in Appleton.

Dessort said the committee will mail letters to area industries and businesses inviting them to become partner sponsors for the event. “These sponsorships are important and help offset the cost of bringing the band to New London,” Dessort said.

Local students who are from the New London, Hortonville and Fox Valley area will be highlighted during the UW Band’s performance.

“We are excited to be able to bring the UW Band here to New London,” said Dessort. “They’re arguably the best collegiate band in the country.”